2 indicted in shooting of Toledo market owner

12/29/2010

Two men arrested for the shooting of a North Toledo business owner were indicted Wednesday by a Lucas County grand jury.

Nathaniel Lee, 19, of 417 Bronson and Eric Thompson, 19, of 337 Dexter St. were each charged with five counts of felonious assault, each with gun specifications, and one count of attempt to commit murder with a gun specification. Because the cases likely would merge, the men could serve up to 13 years in prison if convicted.

Authorities said the two entered Our Food Market on East Streicher Street on Dec. 15. Police said they asked for lottery tickets and shot owner Mohammad “Mike” Abaza, who was working alone, when he turned around.

Bleeding from the face and hands, Mr. Abaza dialed 911 and met emergency crews at the door. Mr. Abaza has since been discharged from Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center.